The original “Spaceman” leaves behind a lasting rock legacy.
A Life in Music
Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and co-founder of KISS, passed away at the age of 74 on October 16th in Morristown, New Jersey. Known worldwide as the “Spaceman,” Frehley became an icon for his galactic stage persona and pyrotechnic guitar performances, helping define the band’s legendary 1970s glam rock era.
The Legacy of the “Spaceman”
Frehley’s distinctive style fueled massive KISS hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “Detroit Rock City.” His innovative, smoking, rocket-launching guitars became a cornerstone of KISS’s unforgettable live shows, inspiring generations of guitarists.
A Rock World Mourns
Frehley suffered a brain bleed following a recent fall, leading to the cancellation of his remaining 2025 tour dates. In a statement, former bandmates Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons called him “an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier… He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy.” As the first of the original four members to pass, Ace Frehley leaves a lasting mark on music history.
